Governor Cuomo has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to rebooting the upstate economy. Under his Start-Up NY program, not only will our universities and colleges educate New York's future entrepreneurs, they will also serve as incubators to foster regional economic growth.

This concept is sure to attract private investment to the North Country. We must act now to ease the burden faced by those who are either unemployed or underemployed due to structural or cyclical economic causes. Due to the fact that we are blessed with so many quality higher education institutions, St. Lawrence County is well suited to enjoy the benefits of new private sector growth and economic expansion through this program.

There is no question we need more private sector jobs in the area and it is time for the Senate and Assembly to pass this proposal.